Tenerife is the largest and most popular of all the Canary Islands. It is an ideal destination for holidays with numerous landmarks and attractions, sporting activities and two large airports. Its climate is warm all year round making it a favoured choice for winter breaks as well. This also has given way to a large diversity of flora and fauna, including endemic species.
Thanks to the fact that nearly half of the island is under protection, Tenerife also has lower pollution levels than those seen in most major cities across the world. Well-developed man made holiday resorts make ideal bases if you want a holiday in one spot, however it is also worth hitting the road to discover other hidden gems of the island.
Driving in Tenerife
There is a marvellous network of highways and coastal roads making driving in Tenerife easy and pleasant at the same time. The two main highways running from the North to the South are the Autopista Del Sur and the Autopista Del Norte.
Arrange for car hire pick up at either of the two airports of which one is in the North and the other in the South. Remember to carry your driving licence and car papers with you at all times and pack a handy phrase book because not everyone speaks English, especially if you intend getting off the beaten track. Also, remember that they drive on the right.
Three popular things to do while on a road trip in Tenerife
Many people recommend the benefit of road tripping through Tenerife is simply to get away from the man-made coastal resorts like Playas de Americas, to discover the culture and traditions of the locals. Puerto de la Cruz is popular with wind surfers due to the large waves however on the outskirts; sit many roadside restaurants serving cheap and delicious regional cuisine.
The village of Masca was once the locals best kept secret however now the word is out and many drivers brave the terrifying cliffside drive to see dramatic landscape views totally unspoiled by urban planning.
Your route should also involve visiting the island’s most famous landmark, Mount Teide. It is the third highest volcano in the world, situated in the accompanying national park that covers 18,000 hectares and is a world heritage site.
(Mount Tahtali – Picture by Serrmarr)
Recommend Food to Try
As an island, it should come as no surprise that fish is a popular dish, normally served with wrinkly potatoes covered with the local Mojo sauce. If wrinkly potatoes are not on the menu, the accompanying dish will probably be Gofio that is roasted and grounded cereal grains. The island is renowned for their quality of goat’s cheese sometimes accompanying snack food. There are also five main wine growing regions on the island, which provide wonderful tasting opportunities to enthusiastic wine drinkers.